Today’s metal coatings are designed to give metals some different properties. It’s not just about inhibiting rust or corrosion, although this is an important part of the business. Here are some of the most common types of coatings used in industry today and the advantages they can bring.
Painting
Paint is perhaps one of the oldest and still most common methods. However, paint is subject to wear and tear and will eventually wear off. Even when metal surfaces are properly prepared, most kinds of painting cannot provide metals with unique properties. However, paint is still used in many applications because it is affordable.
Anodizing
The anodizing process uses electricity to make aluminum resistant to corrosion. This type of metal coating is not sprayed on like paint, so how does this work? Aluminum and aluminum alloy are treated with a process that speeds up oxidation and enhances metal’s natural resistance to rust and corrosion.
Thermal Spraying
In this process, coatings are melted or heated and then sprayed on metal, plastic, ceramic, and other materials. There are several thermal spray metal coatings methods:
* Detonation
* Plasma – commonly used for coating the inside of engine cylinders and ceramic coating exhaust systems for car engines
* Wire arc – used to create thick metallic coatings
* Flame
* HVOF (High-velocity oxy-fuel coating spraying)
* Cold
* Warm
Powder Coating
The powder is used to make durable and long lasting metal coatings. The powder is made from a unique polymer that is attracted to the metal. Also, because the powder is not a liquid, it is not subject to running or streaking when applied.
KF Polymer Powder Coating
The KF Polymer method is used to create a high resistance to corrosive industrial environments, especially harsh chemical conditions. A thick type polymer is utilized in the process, providing special properties resistant to impact, tension, flexing, compression, and elongation. KF is commonly used in pumps, piping, and valves, and can withstand freezing and hot temperatures.
Other Types of Metal Coatings
There are many other kinds of coating methods, and here are a few more you may see today.
* Nickel Boron Plating – superior firearm coatings
* Electroplating – uses electricity to bond metal coatings to metal
* Chemical – includes hot flocking and electro static methods
* Passivation – used to enhance stainless steel properties
* Impregnation
* Ceramic reinforced release coatings
* Epoxy – resinous polymer for waste treatment applications
* Thermoplastic – provides durable outdoor finish
* Halar – individual polymers in these metal coatings offer exceptional resistance to many industrial environments
If you would like to learn more about individual metal coatings and how they can enhance your business, come to Secoa Technology. We have more than 50 years of experience in the metal finishing business and offer a large number of solutions for your company.